Proposal to Give Preference to British Subjects in Housing Rejected

January 1, 1924

London (Jun. 17)

The proposal, which originated in the House of Lords, for the introduction of a law in England, discriminating against the alien residents in the matter of housing facilities, was rejected today in the House of Commons by a vote of 231 to 135.

The proposal was to the effect that inasmuch as there is a shortage of houses in Great Britain, preference in granting housing facilities should be given to British subjects, as against the one quarter of a million aliens resident in the country.

The former Assistant Foreign Secretary, Mr. McNeil, during the discussion, stated that it was outrageous that aliens should be housed before the needs of native Englishmen are satisfied.

Sir John Simon, the Liberal leader, declared, however, that from the stan point of English law, it does not matter whether a man is an alien or a Britisher. “Both are equal,” he declared.

Attorney General Hastings also denounced the proposed measure, calling it an election stunt on the part of those who introduced it.